In a truly heart-stopping moment, EarthCam footage has captured the terrifying mid-air collision between American Airlines flight 5342 and a military Black Hawk helicopter over Washington DC.

The incident unfolded just before 9 pm on Wednesday, as the American Airlines flight was attempting to land at Reagan National Airport, sending shockwaves across the city.

Details of the Crash and the Aircrafts Involved

The American Airlines flight, a Bombardier CRJ700, had 64 people on board and was en route from Wichita, Kansas.

Meanwhile, the military helicopter, a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk, was carrying three soldiers on a routine training flight at the time of the crash.

Tragically, the collision occurred as both aircraft were in the vicinity of the Potomac River, resulting in a massive explosion and debris scattering across the water.

Devastating Footage Captures the Explosive Moment

Dramatic footage captured by EarthCam reveals the moment of impact as the two aircrafts collided, causing an explosive burst that sent debris tumbling into the river.

The video also shows vehicles driving below, unaware of the catastrophic event unfolding above them.

Additional dashcam footage from a nearby driver captured the explosion in the distance, heightening the gravity of the situation.

Search and Rescue Efforts in Full Swing

In the wake of the crash, first responders sprang into action, with rescue crews quickly pulling at least four individuals from the water.

They were immediately taken to the hospital, though authorities have confirmed there have been fatalities.

Despite the ongoing efforts, rescuers have not found any survivors from the river, according to CNN reports.

The Coast Guard, along with local emergency teams from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC, have mobilized to assist in the search.

Fireboats have been deployed on the Potomac River, and police officers are working tirelessly to coordinate the recovery efforts.

Federal Response and Investigation Underway

As news of the tragic accident spread, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that all available US Coast Guard resources were being utilized for the ongoing rescue mission.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with the Air Line Pilots Association sending a team to assist in the probe.

The FBI is also monitoring the situation, though there is currently no evidence suggesting that the crash was caused by any criminal activity or terrorism.

All flights at Reagan National Airport have been suspended while authorities assess the aftermath of the collision.

President’s Statement and Support from the Public

The White House acknowledged the crash, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirming that President Trump had been briefed on the incident.

In a statement, President Trump expressed his condolences, saying, “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident… May God Bless their souls.”

He also praised the work of the first responders and promised to continue monitoring the situation.

Meanwhile, American Airlines assured the public that they are closely following developments and will provide additional information as it becomes available.

The airline’s statement confirmed the involvement of flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, as part of American Airlines’ service from Wichita to Washington.

Chilling Water Conditions Add to the Danger

NBC’s Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer noted that at the time of the crash, the Potomac River’s temperature was a chilling 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

With such frigid water temperatures, individuals in the water could only survive for about 15 to 20 minutes before succumbing to hypothermia.

Ongoing Efforts and Prayers for the Victims

As authorities continue their search and rescue operations, many are holding out hope for any possible survivors.

Vice President JD Vance took to social media, urging the public to pray for those involved in the crash and to stay hopeful as details emerge.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers of air travel, and the brave efforts of those working to bring closure to the victims and their families.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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